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The Best Spots for Birdwatching in the Grand Canyon
Beyond sightseeing and backpacking, birding is one of the most popular activities for Grand
Canyon visitors. Home to over 370 species of birds,1
every area of the park offers the chance to
view our feathered friends in their natural habitat – you just have to know where to look. Here
are a few of the best spots for birdwatching in the Grand Canyon.
Grand Canyon Village
Due to its proximity to the visitor’s center, Grand Canyon Village is one of the most toured parts
of the park. It is also located directly on the rim of the canyon, making the town an ideal location
for viewing soaring birds of prey. Use binoculars to check the cliffs below Lookout Studio and
Bright Angel Lodge for roosts belonging to Zone-Tailed Hawks or the endangered California
Condor. Smaller birds that favor pinyon-juniper woodlands can also be viewed in the area,
including Canyon Wrens, Pine Grosbeak, and American Three-Toed Woodpeckers, to name a
few.
Yaki Point and Lipan Point
Two other areas of the park known for viewing birds of prey are Yaki Point and Lipan Point. For
years, birding enthusiasts noticed that raptors were using these locations during migration, so in
the 1990s, both points were established as watch sites by preservationists Hawkwatch
International. Tourists can visit both areas to join official counters as they update raptor-
migration tally boards. In addition to watching for California Condors, they also keep track of
Sharp-shinned, Cooper’s, Red-tailed, and Swainson’s Hawks; plus American Kestrels, osprey,
eagles, and falcons.
Bright Angel Trail
This hiking trail is one of the most well known backpacking locations in Grand Canyon National
Park. The path begins near the South Rim by Grand Canyon Village and affords fantastic views
every step of the way, traveling to the lush Indian Garden all the way down to secluded Phantom
Ranch. The Bright Angel trail is also well maintained and features plentiful shade, making it a
popular destination for newcomers.
Another perk of exploring Bright Angel Trail by foot is the ability to view a multitude of bird
species in their natural habitats. The path travels through several different ecosystems as well,
ranging from forest to riparian. Birdwatchers on the trail may stumble upon species of orioles,
warblers, and sparrows; as well as colorful birds like Summer Tanagers, Yellow-breasted Chats,
Lazuli Buntings, and Painted Redstarts.
Hearst Tanks
In the late 1800s, Grandview Point was a hotbed for mining activity. It was also a popular tourist
destination featuring the famous first-class Grandview Hotel. As mining activity decreased
during the twentieth century, settlers left the area behind. Today all that remains are old water
towers in an area known as Hearst Tanks.

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Drainage pools near the Hearst Tanks fill with runoff during the spring, and are often the only
water around for miles. In addition to attracting wildlife like elk and coyote, the water also draws
countless species of birds looking for a drink, including:
Western Tanagers
Black-headed Grosbeaks
Grace’s Warbler
Wild Turkeys
Northern Goshawk
If you and your family are birding enthusiasts, consider adding these park locations to the list for
your next Grand Canyon sightseeing tour. From endangered raptors to common finches, there are
so many birds that can be spotted year-round.